High Altitude Disclosure

Our workshops in Colorado will take place at high altitudes, where acclimatization is essential. The body typically requires 24-36 hours or longer to adjust to these elevations. High altitudes can produce a variety of physical side effects.

When visiting or hiking at elevations above 8,000 feet, it is crucial to allow time to acclimate before engaging in strenuous activities. It’s important to ascend at a pace that your body can manage, which will vary from person to person. As elevation increases, air pressure decreases, meaning each breath you take contains less oxygen than at sea level.

By slowing your pace and giving yourself adequate time to acclimate, you can reduce the risk of altitude sickness. This allows your body to undergo the necessary physiological changes to adjust to the reduced oxygen levels. However, neglecting proper acclimatization increases the likelihood of altitude sickness.

The “acclimatization line” varies by individual. Symptoms typically do not manifest below 8,000 or 9,000 feet, but as elevation increases, so does the risk. Acclimatization is a gradual and vital process that requires time and attention. It is important to note that altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level, age, or experience.

During the workshop, please be mindful of the common symptoms of altitude sickness, and inform us if you experience any of them:

    • Dizziness
    • Exhaustion
    • Headaches
    • Nausea
    • Difficulty sleeping

If you experience any severe symptoms, such as changes in vision, shortness of breath, chest tightness or pain, confusion, or slurred speech, please notify us immediately. We will take the necessary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.

IF YOU HAVE ANY CONCERNS REGARDING THE ELEVATION PLEASE GET IN TOUCH WITH ME HERE.

Top 12 High Altitude Quick Tips

  1. STAY AT A LOWER ELEVATION ON YOUR FIRST DAY – Crested Butte is  at ~8,865 feet. Feel free to spend your first day here, we will be shooting between ~8000 – 10,000ft.
  2. GIVE YOUR BODY TIME TO ADJUST –  To give your body time to adjust to the higher elevation, we recommend spending the day taking in the cute ski town and mountain views. The Ice Cream shop in town in worth a visit!
  3. AVOID STRENUOUS EXERCISE ON THE FIRST DAY – There are no shortages of sights and outdoor activities in Crested Butte for when you have acclimated.
  4. LIMIT ALCOHOL AND CAFFEINATED BEVERAGES – Alcohol binds oxygen and water and robs your body of these two important nutrients. Alcohol will not impact your body any differently at high altitude than it would at sea level, but at high altitudes, someone whose body has not had time to acclimate to the reduced oxygen and humidity levels is less equipped to effectively process alcohol. 
  5. DRINK MORE WATER AND REPLENISH ELECTROLYTES –  Stay hydrated! At higher altitudes the air is drier which will dehydrate you much faster. The higher you go the more you should drink. Drinking twice your normal water intake is suggested at higher altitudes. To replenish electrolytes you can eat foods containing high potassium – bananas, dates, avocados or add electrolytes to your water.
  6. EAT MORE CALORIES – One of the benefits of being at a higher altitude is that your body will naturally burn more calories because it is working harder to get oxygen to get your body functioning.
  7. USE SUN PROTECTION – The atmosphere is thinner at higher elevations, providing you less protection from the sun’s UV rays. Hats, sunscreen and sun protective clothing are all recommended.
  8. BRING LAYERS – Another thing to prepare for with the  thinner atmosphere is the changing temperatures. Its is common for people to feel warmer during the day than the actual temperature and chilly after the sunsets.
  9. ALWAYS TRAVEL WITH A COMPANION – Everyone experiences altitude changes differently. We recommend always brining a friend with you if possible. If that is not possible let someone know your detailed itinerary in case of emergencies. Alway keep us informed during a workshop.
  10. CHECK WITH YOU DOCTOR – The effects of some drugs such as tranquilizers can be greatly increased at higher altitudes. If you are worried about altitude sickness, or you have experienced it before you can talk to your doctor about trying a prescription of acetazolamide (Diamox) and other potential treatments.
  11. REST AND RECOVER – Just like giving your body time to adjust upon arriving, it is also recommended to allow your body to recover, especially after any high energy, high altitude activities. Spend a few extra moments relaxing and taking in the sights.
  12. CAR/MOTION SICKNESS – Different from altitude sickness but never fun, the beautiful mountain roads of Colorado can be very curvy and winding. If you are prone to motion sickness we recommend having dramamine or ginger capsules a day before as well as keeping it handy during your trip. Ginger beer (Evie’s favorite is Maine Root) is also a good one in a pinch while also being refreshing.